Living with the greenhouse effect

Global warming is also known as the greenhouse effect and the gases involved are called greenhouse gasesbecause concentrations of toxic gases in the Earth’s atmosphere prevent heat from escaping back into space just as the glass walls and roof of a greenhouse prevent heat from escaping a greenhouse.

The global effects of greenhouse gases.

Realizing that global warming doesn’t only mean higher temperatures

Global warming isn’t just about rising temperatures; it’s about the effects of those higher temperatures:

Stormier storms: Rising sea temperatures release more water vapor into the air above the ocean. When hurricanes form, they pick up this increased vapor, which creates a more intense storm.

Chillier cold: In some northern areas, melting snow and ice cool the sea water that currently offers a moderating effect on those areas.

Drier deserts: Arid areas can expect to be drier for longer periods each year, and other areas may become drier.